Pools

While having a pool can be great, it can be one of the biggest silent energy suckers of all. Follow our tips to help you stop your pool being a real drain on your finances.

Energy saving tips

Simple habits = big savings.

  1. Connecting your pool pump to an economy tariff Like Tariff 33 or Tariff 31 can significantly reduce running costs, as these tariffs are designed for appliances that don’t need power at all times.
  2. Upgrade to an energy efficient pool pump Save up to 80% on your future pool running costs1
  3. Regularly clear the water inlet So it doesn’t struggle with leaves and debris
  4. Keep your pool cool Warmer water uses more energy and more chemicals due to faster algae growth
  5. Use a pool cover This reduces evaporation, keeps out leaves and reduces cleaning time and energy
  6. Check the running time for your pool pump Your local pool shop can help with this.
  7. Cover a heated pool or spa An insulated cover helps to keep the warmth in
  8. Switch off the heater if you're not swimming It’s a myth that reheating uses more energy.
Pool pump calculator

Connect to an economy tariff

Tariffs 33 and 31 are cheaper because the power may switch off for short periods when the network’s under heavy demand (usually between 4pm and 8pm on hot days). Outside those events, you're guaranteed:

  • Tariff 33: at least 16 hours/day
  • Tariff 31: at least 8 hours/day.

Set your pump timer to avoid the 4–8pm window for the best results.

Pool pumps running filtration and sanitation can plug into a standard outlet on the economy meter. Other equipment like heaters, lights and water features can also use these tariffs but need to be hardwired.

To take advantage of Tariff 33 or Tariff 31 savings, contact a licensed electrician and ask them to connect your pool pump to this tariff. Please note, you will be charged for the electrician's time and materials to connect your pool pump to these economy tariffs.

Learn more about residential tariffs including economy tariffs.

Types of pool pumps ️

All pumps circulate and clean your pool water. The difference is how they run:

  • Single‑speed pumps
    Affordable upfront but run flat‑out all the time. Noisy and energy‑hungry.
  • Dual‑ or multi‑speed pumps
    Let you choose different speeds manually. Running on a lower speed uses less energy but may need longer run times.
  • Variable‑speed pumps
    Adjust speed automatically for maximum efficiency. You can also change the speed manually.
    (Just remember - high speed all the time = high energy use.)

Whichever pump you choose, the key is sizing it correctly for your pool.

Energy efficient pool pumps

Variable‑speed pumps are usually the most efficient, but there are highly efficient single‑ and dual‑speed models too. The Energy Rating website has tips for running your pool pump efficiently.

About star ratings for pool pumps

The Energy Rating Labelling Scheme is a national program to support the development and supply of energy efficient appliances by providing clear and objective information.

Energy rating labels help you compare pool pumps and understand how much electricity they’ll use each year. Pool pump labels are voluntary for suppliers, but many have already opted in.

Look for a higher star rating and lower annual kilowatt‑hour usage when choosing your next pump.

For more information, visit the Energy Rating Label webpage.

Save energy with the right pool temperature

Cooler water = cheaper bills.

  • Warmer pools need more chemicals and more filtration
  • Set your heater to the lowest comfortable temperature
  • Lowering the temp reduces heater run time and saves money
  • Turn the heater down (or off completely) if you’re away or not swimming for a few days
  • It absolutely does not cost more to heat the pool again later.

Solar pool heating

Free heat from the sun.

Solar is the cheapest way to heat your pool, using roof‑mounted pipes to warm the water. It can lift your water temperature by around 6°C depending on the weather.

Use a pool cover to hold onto the heat - especially in winter when solar alone may struggle.

What temperature should I set my pool or spa?

  • Pools: 24–28°C is comfy for swimming and play
  • Spas: 34–38°C is ideal for relaxing.

Remember, warmer water = more pump time needed for sanitation.

Talk to a pool heating specialist to find the right system for your setup.

Talk to a professional

Chat with your local pool professional to find the best way to save energy and cut your pool running costs. You can also reach out to the Swimming Pool and Spa Association (SPASA)  for trusted advice and accredited technicians.

To find a registered pool technician or learn more about energy efficiency and pools, contact a pool industry association.

1 Based on a 350W 8‑Star rated pump vs a 1.1kW fixed‑speed pump running 6 hours/day for 365 days.